松明

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 松明 is read as たいまつ and means a handheld torch that produces light from a flame on wood, cloth, or similar material.
• Basic usage: Use 松明に火をつける for lighting a torch and 松明を掲げる for holding one aloft.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Difference between 松明 and 懐中電灯
  • The former is a traditional portable light with an open flame, whereas the latter is an electric flashlight.